An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and AstrophysicsEnglish-French-Persian

فرهنگ ریشه شناختی اخترشناسی-اخترفیزیک

M. Heydari-Malayeri - Paris Observatory

The Serpent Holder. An extensive constellation located in the equatorial regions of
the sky at about 17h 20m right ascension, 5° south declination.
Although this constellation is not part of the zodiac, the Sun passes
through it in December each year. Ophiuchus
contains five stars of second magnitude and seven of third magnitude.
Other designations: Serpent Bearer, Serpentarius.
Abbreviation: Oph, genitive: Ophiuchi.

L. Ophiuchus, from Gk. ophioukhos "holding a serpent," from
ophis "serpent" + echein "to hold, have, keep."
The most recent interpretation is that the figure represents the great healer
Asclepius, a son of the god Apollo, who learned the secrets of keeping death at bay
after observing one serpent bringing another healing herbs. To prevent
the entire human race from becoming immortal under Asclepius' care,
Zeus killed him with a bolt of lightning, but later placed his image
in the heavens to honor his good works.